Opuntia ficus-indica (Prickly Pear Cactus) ‘Gymno Carpo’
‘Gymno Carpo’ is suitable for production of fresh fruit, oil and cladodes with high yield potential.The fruit has a sweet, refreshing taste. The orange pulp is great for making jams, syrups, and desserts. The young, tender pads (called nopales) are also edible and taste similar to green beans, the pads can be boiled or grilled to add to salads and tacos. Recommended plant spacing for Gymno Carpo prickly pear in Zambia is 3m apart in rows and 5m between rows (660 plants per hectare).
Sold per pad only. Price is per pad.
16 in stock
ZK100.00
16 in stock
Opuntia ficus-indica (Prickly Pear Cactus) ‘Gymno Carpo’ is a hardy, drought-tolerant fruiting cactus valued for its sweet, refreshing prickly pears and striking ornamental appearance. This vigorous variety produces attractive fleshy pads and abundant fruit with juicy, flavourful orange flesh that can be enjoyed fresh or used in juices, jams, jellies, desserts, and syrups.
Exceptionally well suited to hot, dry climates, ‘Gymno Carpo’ requires minimal water once established and is an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and orchards. The fruit is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, fibre, and essential minerals, while the plant’s sculptural form adds year-round interest to the landscape.
Growing Information
Botanical name: Opuntia ficus-indica
Plant type: Evergreen succulent cactus
Height: 2–5 m
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained sandy or gravelly soil
Water: Low water requirements; drought tolerant once established
Harvest: Late summer to autumn
Uses: Fresh fruit, juices, jams, jellies, syrups, edible pads (nopales), and ornamental landscaping
A productive, low-maintenance cactus that thrives in challenging conditions while providing nutritious fruit and excellent drought resilience.
